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    • Jan 31, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Shallow Water But Great Natural Beauty in Silver Glen Springs – St. Johns River/Lake George

      Silver Glen Spring Run is a narrow stream that pierces the western banks of Lake George (between Palatka and Astor on the St. Johns River), west of marker #9. These waters rise from natural springs, and are usually crystal clear. This makes the “basin” (mentioned below) a very popular stop for houseboats and pontoon boats. Years ago, a buddy and I spent a very happy afternoon snorkeling these beautiful waters.
      HOWEVER, depths here have always been SKIMPY, to say the least! And now we hear below from Captain Betsy Johnson, that the “outgoing” channel is so shallow their 3-foot draft catamaran ran hard aground, and they had to be towed! There was only one channel when last I visited, but clearly that has changed.
      So, at least for the time being, the best plan to visit Green Cove Springs is to anchor in Lake George, east of Silver Glen Spring’s mouth, and dinghy into the stream.
      Has anyone else tried to visit here lately. If so, we would like to hear about your experience. Please follow the “Click Here to Contribute Cruising News” link to the above right, and share your information!

      Over the years, many Loopers have suggested a trip into Silver Glen Springs, off the St. Johns River. That was one of the main reasons we are taking this side trip on the St. Johns River. Once we worked our way in there this week we ended up waiting for TowBoat US for several hours when we ran aground and couldn’t work our way off. We are a power catamaran and draw less than 3 feet. Apparently the water is very low now. Following the channel in was no problem and depths were showing 7 feet or more. But once we got into the “pool” there were many locals already there, on a weekday. We decided we did not want to stay so tried to continue in the markers for the channel heading back out. (They have it marked for an incoming and outgoing channel, as they are so narrow boats can’t pass). OOPS! Once we hit bottom (hard packed sand) we could not get off, and we were right between two markers….could reach out and touch them they were so close.
      Our recommendation would be to not go into this spot that has been so
      popular in the past. Lesson learned was to be sure to have your tow company (TowBoat US for us this time) paid up. The fact that there was a large TowBoat US banner on one of the abandoned boats in the pool should have
      told us something!
      We recommend that all Loopers have both TowBoat US and SeaTow (we do), because you never know when you might need them and having both covers you in all areas of the Loop.
      A final note: if you do choose to go into Silver Glen Springs, be sure to clean your strainers the minute you are out, or even before. The undergrowth is pervasive!
      Betsy Johnson
      Rick ‘n Roll
      currently lying Hontoon Landing State Park on the St. John’s River

      Cruising News:
      The markers in the glen are not navigation markers, [even though] they look like nav markers. They are for traffic control. During the summer weekends there may be as many as 2,000 boats day tripping and the LEO need these to patrol and prevent anchoring in the “channel”. There is plenty of depth 6+ on the southside. If you can cross the shallow entrance there is plenty of water in the spring run. 25+ boating into the “Glenn”
      Harry Gillean

      We did Silver Glen Springs in 2010 but anchored out in Lake George, about 1/2 mile from the spring entrance, and took the dingy into the spring. It is well worth seeing the crystal clear water, Alligators lounging and other
      wildlife.
      Ray & Linda
      SUMMERTIME

      We anchored way out from Silver Glen Springs and took the dinghy into the springs. We found the way in to be far too shallow for our 5 ft draft. We enjoyed the springs and found it well worth the effort. A local volunteered to take the women aboard our dinghy back to our boat as he thought the Lake George waters were rough and we would all be wet. We appreciated his concern and enjoyed meeting another boater.
      Great side trip!!!
      Joy Poole

      While it is a beautiful side trip, avoid the “weekend warriors” at all cost. Expect heavy traffic from Sanford to the springs! Several hundred boats packed in with FWC and three county Marine Patrol Units keeping them sorted out isn’t worth it. BTW- it’s designated as a “NO Alcohol Area” once you enter the channel and you’re not allowed to go ashore to the park. Monday ~ Thursday is the most enjoyable.
      Frank M Howell

      We so enjoyed our sojourn on the St. Johns. We actually turned back to visit Silver Glen Springs along with our friends Beth and Dean on Kismet. We too were worried about the clearance and chose to anchor out in the lake and dinghy in. We almost ran aground in the dinghy but when we reached the springs area there was a huge cruiser anchored in there. We could not figure how it got in but there it was. Apparently the locals knew something we did not.
      Swimming in those springs was a real highlight of our Loop. There were large silver fish down in the spring and when the sun hit just right you could see how the springs got their name. We had hiked up to the ranger station to pay an admission fee and were told as long as we came by boat and stayed around the edge of the spring there was no fee.
      If I had to do the Loop all over, and we may, I would take the time to swim in every spring.
      Rusty and Jan Carlisle

      I cruised to Silver Glen Springs twice during the week days during winter/2012, drawing 3 feet in my 24 cabin cruiser with an I/O. I had no problem navigating the water depths, however there is a lot of kelp-like underwater growth near the entrance of the spring, reaching to the surface, probably due to the effects of the warm water. Near the beginning of the stream’s entrance on the left, there is a large, private fishing club. There were three boats present both times near the terminus of the waterway in about six feet of water; two were pontoon houseboat rentals, and the third was a 34’ Mainship with it’s bow on the beach sand. It was unoccupied (possibly except for weekends.) The first trip I launched at Ed Stone Park at Deland, FL(overnight excursions are permitted, but it’s a somewhat long trip through what is similar to the scenic Great Dismal Swamp.) On my second trip, the park ranger suggested a private launch site only a few miles north of the national forest at Moodys rivate ramp ($10 per day, private ramp.) The ranger said the FWC and the local police were `actively enforcing’ alcohol/drugs and absence of clothing issues by those rafting up on the weekends and acting `wild’ which disturbed the national park visitors family atmosphere. The park even has an ice cooler inspection for their guests. I encountered no inspection issues during my mid-week stayovers of two and three days. The park is has a bouyed line of floats separating it from the area accessible to boaters. The National Forest website for this part is
      http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/recarea/?recid=37199
      Gary Koerner

      Regarding Silver Glen Springs, I agree that no boat over 25 feet should attempt to enter it. However, there is great anchoring just off the mouth of the river running into the springs, so drop the hook and dinghy in.
      Bill & Kathleen Root
      MV BUFFALO GAL

      Lisa and I did the ST Johns a couple years ago, spent almost a month exploring. The water was a little higher then and we were able to get into Silver Glen Springs with our (at that time) 4 1/2′ draft but it was touch and go even then. If you’re thinking of cruising the St Johns and want to view photo’s you can check out the following posts on our blog.
      http://www.favorsgreatloopblog.com/category/our-new-loop-adventure/5-great-loop-st-johns-river-fl/#.URELH6XrbzI
      Jim Favors
      Kismet
      Ranger Tug R27

      Silver Glen Springs is one that shallower draft boats may be able to get in to depending on Lake water levels. Local knowledge will help a lot. We anchored out and took out dink in there. There are some pretty large boats in the shallows there and lots of bottom scars near the entrance to prove it. Probably busiest on weekends. It’s our understanding that you can visit the springs without charge as long as you don’t touch land. You can get a short term pass for using the bathroom. No alcohol and don’t dare tie to the trees! We talked with a NF ranger about this place and the rules.
      Jim & Vaughn Quince

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Silver Glen Spring Run

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    • Jan 30, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Fellow Cruiser Asks Your Advice re Peck Lake Anchorage, AICW Statute Mile 992

      Capt. Moran is an experienced cruiser who is wise enough to seek local knowledge, even in an area formerly visited. Let us hear from you if you have an answer for Capt. Moran.
      Over the years, we have found that the best entry point from the AICW, into the anchorage seems to move. So, it would be invaluable if several of you who have visited here recently shared where you found the best water.
      PLEASE follow the “Click Here to Submit Cruising News” link to the upper right of this, and all (except Chart View) SSECN pages, and share your information

      I’ve been here several times, but it would be most helpful to know the exact entry point off the ICW to get into this anchorage. I’ve always depended on the kindness of those in this anchorage before me to guide me in due to the challenge of finding the ‘˜sweet spot’ to get over that bar’¦and passed it by on those occasions when some braver soul had not already ‘˜done the deed’ before me. Hints anyone?
      Wally Moran

      We are currently anchored in Peck Lake with winds up to 20 knots and good holding. The beach is really nice but cruiser’s with pets should know no dogs allowed. There are a lot of no seeums even with the wind at dusk and dawn.
      Pam Neff

      And, as usual, the cruising community has responded magnificently, with the generous advice below:

      Leave ICW immediately south of G19. Head toward weather station on timber structure just off beach. As you get in to deeper water, head north again until water begins to shallow. Circle back to the south and anchor. There is lots of room, and holding is good. No problem with four foot draft.
      Dogs ARE allowed on the ICW side of the park. They are not allowed east of the dune line. I contacted the park superintendent, and he confirmed this in an email to me. We were there with our dog on January 11, 2013
      Norman Mason
      Peggy Sue
      Monk 36

      Hi Claiborne,
      I must tell you about our first visit to Peck Lake several years ago.
      We had just purchased our first trawler, a second hand Mainship 390 in Fort Lauradale, it had come equipped with an Avon dingy and small outboard engine. So I dropped the hook for the first time at Peck Lake. I got the deflated dingy out of the engine compartment, inflated it and attached it to the swim platform, then I attached the outboard which was mounted up on the fly bridge, connected the fuel tank, with questionable fuel, primed it, but it wouldn’t go. After I had cleaned the fuel bowl and spark plug to no avail, Linda got the manual out. I might say by this time the dogs needed a potty break on the shore, they were all getting a little impatient with me. I promised we would stay in a marina the next day. I had always been familiar with Johnson and Evenrude engines, but this was one with the safety key neatly attached on a short chain to the engine and I had overlooked plugging it in. Naturally she pointed this out to me and the engine started immediately. We stayed at Peck Lake for three days and had a wonderful time playing with the dogs on the Atlantic side of the strip of land not approachable by land.
      Great memories and probably the best anchorage on the ICW.
      Graham Pugh
      Kando 11
      New Bern NC

      From just south of marker 19 go directly toward the tide station ( platform). Anchorage is good on both sides of that line. Don’t go more than 150 yards to the south of that line. Depths run 6 to 8 feet.
      Mike Koverman

      We’ve anchored at Peck Lake with our two labradors, and they have enjoyed running on the beach on the Atlantic side. Never saw any signs saying `no dogs allowed’
      Graham Pugh

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Peck Lake Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Peck Lake Anchorage

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    • Jan 29, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments 34.6838,-77.12279999

      Welcome Dredging in Problem Stretch: AICW/Bogue Inlet Intersection, Statute Mile 227, Swansboro, NC


       View In Chartview

      AICW Bogue Inlet Intersection – Click for Chartview

      The Bogue Inlet/AICW intersection has long been an “AICW Problem Stretch” and the dredging detailed below is welcome news. Not only is perennial shoaling a problem for AICW cruisers at this intersection, but the inland-most marker (#20) on the Bogue Inlet channel is often mistaken for an AICW aid to navigation. This mis-identification often leads to groundings.

      NC ‘“ NEUSE RIVER TO MYRTLE GROVE SOUND (AICW) ‘“ WHITE OAK RIVER CROSSING ‘“ DREDGING
      The Dredge WILKO will be conducting dredging operations in the AICW at the following locations/dates:
      White Oak River Crossing-26 January until 31 January, 2013.
      Floating rubber and submerged polyethylene pipelines will transport dredge spoil to the Upland Disposal Area 64 from the White Oak site. The dredge and assisting vessels MISS LEANNE and PROUD MARY will monitor VHF-fm CHANNELS 13, 16 and 78. Mariners are cautioned to stay clear of dredge, booster, floating (pontoon) and submerged pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires associated with dredging and marine construction operations. Operators of vessels of all types should be aware that dredges and floating pipelines are held in place by cables, attached to anchors some distance away from the equipment. Buoys are attached to the anchors so that the anchors may be moved as the dredge advances and the location of the submerged pipelines are marked by buoys on each side of the channel. Mariners are cautioned to strictly comply with the Inland Rules of the Road when approaching, passing and leaving the area of operations, and remain a safe distance away from the dredge, booster, buoys, cables, pipeline, barges, derricks, wires and related equipment. Owners and lessees of fishnets, crabpots and other structures that may be in the vicinity and that may hinder the free navigation of attending vessels and equipment must be remove these from the area where tugs, tenderboats and other attendant equipment will be navigating. Dredging projects are usually conducted twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week, all fishnets, crabpots and structures in the general area must be removed prior to commencement of any work. A NO WAKE transit is requested of all vessels passing the dredge and if necessary to clarify a SAFE PASSAGE contact the dredge on the appropriate VHF-FM channels. Chart: 11541.

      We passed through Swansboro 1/27/13. The dredge Wilco was working in the ICW near Dudley’s Marina.
      Bill Murdock

      Earlier Reports:

      We passed through this area [on the AICW] at 1012 on 11/15/2012 (2 hours after high tide) and found no problems. The key to this is to stay close to the docks on the north [mainland – editor] or (southbound) starboard hand. Doing this we found 15-20′ most of the way.
      Richard B. Emerson

      We passed thru bogue sound inlet [AICW intersection] on 12/06/12 in a 6 foot draft power boat & found a minimum of 14 & mostly 15 to 16 feet of water between markers 45 & 46. Red marker 20 a floating nun buoy could be confusing, but as previously noted it is part of the channel & not an ICW marker. Also of note is there is a green 45, 45A & 45B. Marker 45B is south of red 46. We transited the area two hours prior to high tide.
      Tim Carter

      Bogue Sound Inlet Crossing. No problewm. Favor the main land side.
      Raymond W. Smith

      Click Here To View the Cruisers’ Net’s “AICW Problem Stretches” Listing For the AICW/Bogue Inlet Channel Intersection

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To This AICW Problem Stretch

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    • Jan 29, 2013by:   Claiborne Young 3 Comments

      Navigating From Marco Island/Goodland and Coon Key Pass to Everglades City (Southwestern Florida Coastline)

      As southwestern Florida cruising veterans will tell you, there is an UNOFFICIAL waterway which runs behind Marco Island, and eventually, all the way north to Gordon Pass and Naples. The “unofficial” part means that this passage is NOT part of the Western Florida ICW and is therefore not maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
      The shallowest spot on this unofficial Waterway lies near its southern terminus, hard by the southern tip of Marco Island, which is occupied by the fast developing (but still interesting) village of Goodland. Here, you can easily encounter 4 1/2 foot soundings right in the middle of the channel at low water.
      Also, a bit farther to the north, where the channel passes under the (northern) Marco Island Bridge, there is an UNBELIEVABLE “L” turn in the channel, just southeast of the span. You MUST pass marker #26 to its eastern and southern sides, or your vessel’s keel WILL find the bottom!!!!!
      The southernmost point of this “unofficial Waterway” is known as Coon Key Pass. Cruising craft must traverse the “shallow spot” near Goodland, and then cruise through Coon Key Pass, if they are southbound to Everglades City, Little Shark River or the Florida Keys via this “unofficial waterway route.” Of course, you can avoid all of this by staying offshore, being sure to stay well clear the vast Cape Romano Shoals, and then continuing south.
      The messages below pertain to cruising south from Marco Island/Goodland, via Coon Key Pass.

      What is the water depth? It looks very shallow. We are heading to Marco on Wednesday and could go to Goodland on our way to Everglades City…IF there is water!
      Thanks.
      Mike
      One September

      We’ve been thru Marco to Goodland several times in our boat which drafts 4 ft and haven’t had a problem. The most challenging spots were just after leaving the Marco Bridge (toward Goodland) and when exiting from Goodland back to the Gulf at Coon Key. Pay attention to the tides and charts and it shouldn’t be a problem. It’s our preferred route to avoid Cape Romano Shoals.
      Steve and Gina Smith
      M/V Island Time

      We draw 42″. Go at high tide, or close to it. It’s a soft bottom.
      Swing Set

      The moon is full, now. Even though the tidal amplitude isn’t much we discovered that inches count!. After poking around south of Cape Romano we decided that the charts were not accurate enough to go into some of the places that warn of 4 feet or less at MLW. Consequently, we headed directly to Marathon because we were in the area at full moon tide and the tide cycle was wrong for us to make a daylight entry into some of the places south of Goodland. We went into Goodland in a friend’s outboard runabout below half tide. At one point the channel was narrow and too shallow to get Sequel in and out, safely. We opted for the Little Marco River and Capri Pass and, at that, there is an uncharted bar on the right of the pass entering the Little Marco where an island blew away in the last hurricane.
      Joe aboard M/V Sequel

      Two great anchorages on the way to Marathon are Russel Pass outside of Everglades City and Little Shark River. We found them to be one of the nicest anchorages to be at for an overnight stop.
      Michael Rizzo

      Have made the run from marco to everglades city outside many times, in both bad and good weather. if you trust your gps and the depth sounder you can pick your way through the shoals with no problem, once you have done it its a piece a cake. I draw 5.5 feet.
      Nick Chavasse

      Don’t forget about the 55′ bridge from Marco to Goodland.
      Nick

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Goodland and Coon Key Pass

      Comments from Cruisers (3)

      1. Gaz Haring -  August 4, 2017 - 12:56 pm

        Has anyone been through the Cook Key Light / Gullivan Bay channel lately?
        Been a few years since last transited. Always a little dicey with tight places around and south of Coon Key Light. Wondering if still 4′ at MLW according to Coastal Pilot / charts and my personal observations. Aug 2017

        Reply to Gaz
      2. Stephan Mariani -  December 3, 2014 - 12:14 pm

        When navigation the southern side of Marco Island through Caxambas Pass, Caxambas Bay, and Sunset Pass, pay strict attention to the channel depth between markers R16 and G17. Hug the G17 and G15 markers to avoid possible grounding near R16. Avoid this passage at ANY tide less than HIGH. Sounds of 3.0′ to 2.8′ have been encountered here at HIGH tide.

        Reply to Stephan
      3. Stephan Mariani -  December 3, 2014 - 12:05 pm

        When cruising south from the Marco River, passing Goodland on your STBD side, hug marker R2 on your PORT side and choose the channel on the east side of Coon Key heading directly towards Coon Key Light. The western channel at this point is too narrow and shoaled for safe passage at any tide.

        Reply to Stephan
    • Jan 29, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Turtle Cove Marina (Tarpon Springs, FL on the Anclote River)

      Anclote Key, Anclote River and the charming community of Tarpon Springs lies astride the northern terminus of the Western Florida ICW. So, this is either the jumping off point when headed north across the waterwayless Big Bend region of Western Florida, or the first possible stop when cruising south from Carrabelle, Dog Island or Apalachicola.
      Turtle Cove is one of the newest marinas in Tarpon Springs. We had occasion to visit here in February of 2012, and were favorably impressed. Most of the dockage for transient craft is located on an artificial island jutting out into the creek, and connected to the mainland by a narrow, but auto accessible neck. Neat concept!
      I might also add that all the downtown Tarpon Springs attractions, including the MANY superb Greek style restaurants are within easy walking distance, and there is a fresh seafood market literally next door to Turtle Cove. Yummmmmm!

      Sea Biscuit here for several nights. We draw 4.6 feet, and in our case, we can only come and go at, or near, high tide. We almost sit on the bottom in our slip, but not quite. A very nice marina, we like it, just that the water depth at low tide is probably about 3 to 3.5 feet total depth at lower tides during the approach, 5 to 6 at higher tides. Easily doable, but requires a slow and careful approach, which is necessary anyway due to busy traffic, close quarters, and some narrow channels. Enjoy, as the hospitality is tops! Perfect location and excellent security.
      Sea Biscuit, Defever 44

      Visited the first week of Feb. Nice marina w/ floating docks. Looong walk to laundry and showers. New showers planned near docks. Problem being water depth. I draw 57’³. At MLLW I had 32’³ under boat (by lead line). Probably the shallowest dock in the marina. Poor choice by dockmaster. Great location to visit sponge dock area with restaurants and shops (two blocks) and also the downtown with cathedral, upscale antique shops and historical buildings. Approach channel had 6′ spots near high tide. Timing is important for deeper draft craft.
      Has Royer

      Click Here To View the Western Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Turtle Cove Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Turtle Cove Marina

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    • Jan 29, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Best Spot to Watch Cape Canaveral Space Launches

      There is a lively discussion taking place on the AGLCA list, about the best spot to anchor, and pick up a slip to watch space shots from Cape Canaveral. For years, if the weather cooperated, we always anchored in the wide section of the Indian River, just south of Titusville. There’s TONS of swing room, and 5 1/2 to 6 foot depths, BUT absolutely NO shelter from fresh breezes or foul weather. To learn more about this possible vantage point, go to, /?p=4356 !

      We had a great view from the anchorage just south of the railroad bridge near mile 877. There’s a little silt bar right off the channel (6 ft., if I remember correctly), but then deep water almost to the shore to the east,
      with lots of manatees and jumping fish. Excellent protection from the N and E. Only one other boat came in to anchor for the launch, and then left right after.
      Micheal Ahart

      Mooring field at Titusville Muni Marina would be good.
      Darrell Grob

      The ICW does not close. Only the banana river and the mosquito lagoon have restrictions during launches. The best place to watch is between the Titusville bridge and Addison point bridge. Sorry we are at Trawlerfest and don’t have our charts in front of us. It is an amazing thing to watch a launch from just south of Titusville. We’ll Try to see it from Fort Lauderdale after we graduate the latest University class of Building Cruising Confidence As A Couple. Go NASA!!
      Chris and Alyse Caldwell
      Captain Chris Yacht Services
      772-205-1859

      We have watched about 3 launches from our slip at the Cocoa Village Marina. Had a party also during the launch a time or two. Check out Cocoa Village Marina, Cocoa, FL.Â
      Also you can go to Kennedy Space Center Launch Clock Website but it lags the launch a little so be on deck at 0830, but you can see on the launch clock if launch gets cancelled.
      Capt Bob Kovach

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Indian River Spaceport Anchorage

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Indian River Spaceport Anchorage

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Anchorage Directory Listing For the Titusville Mooring Field

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of the Titusville Mooring Field

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Cocoa Village Marina

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of Cocoa Village Marina

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    • Jan 29, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      TowBoatUS Tampa Bay Earns “Tower Of The Year” Award

      This just in from our good friends at TowBoat/US. Looks like the Tampa Bay franchise of this very popular service is really up to snuff!
      Notice this franchise has satellite operations on the Western Florida coastline, from Tampa Bay north through the Big Bend region!

      CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla., January 29, 2013 — An on-the-water towboat company that helps Gulf Coast boaters get home safely was singled out for its professionalism at the BoatUS Towing Services Annual Conference recently held in Clearwater Beach, Florida. Tower of the Year honors went to TowBoatUS Tampa Bay, which is owned and operated by Capt. Larry Tieman and Capt. Clayton Tieman. The company has eight locations along the Gulf Coast from Tampa Bay to Cedar Key, including St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, Clearwater, Tarpon Springs, Hudson, Homosassa River, Crystal River and Yankeetown.

      The company also received two additional awards – the BoatUS Membership Achievement Award for selling the most BoatUS memberships in the entire fleet, and was honored with the BoatUS Dispatchers Choice Award, given by the dispatching staff at the BoatUS 24-hour call centers for providing members with fast response and utmost professionalism during the dispatch process.

      “We have grown our business to become the largest BoatUS towing service provider in the United States and we are very proud of our accomplishments,” said Capt. Larry Tieman. “With fourteen boats and sixteen captains, we handle over 2,500 requests a year for on-the-water assistance. If you’re broken down or run out of gas near shore, we’re very proud that we can get a bright red towboat with a professional captain to your location in usually an hour or less,” he added.

      “The Tieman’s operation is the standard bearer that many in our towing fleet look up to, showing others how to run a successful on-the-water towing business in one of the busiest regions of the country,” said BoatUS Vice President and Director of Towing Services Adam Wheeler. “And they do it professionally, with the great care that our members deserve, and always with a positive attitude.”

      BoatUS Towing Services offers an “unlimited” towing plan for Florida boaters for just $149 a year, which includes BoatUS membership. Without a towing plan, the national average out-of-pocket cost for a tow is about $600. For membership and towing information visit http://www.BoatUS.com/towing or call 800-888-4869.

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    • Jan 24, 2013by:   Claiborne Young No Comments

      Praise for Calusa Island Marina (Marco Island, Western Florida Coastline)

      Calusa Island Marina is our FAVORITE facility on Marco Island. And, not the least reason for this good feeling is that Little Bar Restaurant (239-394-5663) and Stan’s Idle Hour (239-394-3041) are within easy walking distance. The food at Little Bar is superb, and a VERY good time is usually had by all at Stans, particularly on the weekend.
      You will also find the management at Calusa Island Marina very responsive to the needs to cruisers. Give them a try!!!

      Just want to put in a good word for the folks at Calusa Island Marina, Goodland, FL. It is sunny and warm among the mangrove islands just at the edge of the 10,000 Islands. Cheryl, Andrew, Larry and dockmaster, Don, are
      friendly, welcoming and very helpful. So if you are still on your way south (or coming north) a stop here is well worth it.
      Judith and Paul
      Tranquilo

      We’ve been by Calusa many times; we love the area! But, it is shallow, and particularly in the mornings with the prevailing diurnal tides of the SW Coast. From the Coon Key Channel, what’s your “local knowledge” advice on
      getting onto the marina? And also, did you “partake” at Stan’s?
      Thanks
      Jim
      Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary

      It is a really neat run up the back door to there from Marco. Marina is neat. Shallow water is true, but with our 4′ draft, we made it just fine. It is a nice, short run from there to Everglades City, but take the east side of the last island when you leave and not the channel. Locals will tell you how.
      John & Sue Winter

      Click Here To View the Eastern Florida Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For

      Click Here To Open A Chart View Window, Zoomed To the Location of

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    • Jan 24, 2013by:   Larry Dorminy No Comments

      Question about Okeechobee Rim Route near Clewiston, FL

      Capt. Power asks for first-hand knowledge of conditions in the Rim Route canal near Clewiston. If you have recently navigated that area, let us hear from you. The latest construction notice we have posted for this area is from September of 2012 (see link below) which does not mention a submerged cable as part of the construction. To date, Cruisers’ Net cannot find any spokesperson or officer who is aware of a submerged cable, but we will continue to trace the location of said cable. Also, from the comments of the lock tender below, it appears that the rim canal between Moore Haven and Clewiston at least, is passable.

      Related to this alert is the notice from the Corps posted last fall to the effect that there is now a `cable’ that crosses the rim canal between Moore Haven and Clewiston. It first states to take caution for the cable, debris and markers. It then states the rim canal is not passable. I talked with the Corps last fall and was informed that it was passable. I have not seen any recent comments on this issue. Has anyone passed through this area?
      David S. Power
      Two If By Sea

      Update: the Moore Haven Lock just informed me that the `blockage’ that the notice is referring to is in a different location and not in the canal between Moore Haven and Clewiston. He told me that he has been locking several sailboats through the lock today. I hope to talk with a boater coming back from the east cost in a few days and will see what he reports.
      David S. Power
      Two If By Sea

      We have a 39′ trawler and transited the rim route in December, heading westbound and have just today transited eastbound from Moore Haven lock to South Bay, passing Clewiston enroute. We had no issues going either direction and encountered no navigational obstructions.
      T Shelton
      Pelican Rose

      Click Here To View a Navigation Alert posted for the Okeechobee.

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    • Jan 24, 2013by:   Claiborne Young 1 Comment

      Making a Dinghy Legal in Florida

      A very interesting discussion has been taking place this week on the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (http://www.greatloop.org/) about the requirements for legally operating a dinghy in the Sunshine State. This is useful reading for all who cruise in Floridian waters.
      Incidentally, the entire Salty Southeast Cruisers’ Net bunch continues to highly recommend membership in the American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association. What a GREAT bunch of fellow cruisers!

      Our boat the “Ariverderci” she made it to Fort Myers beach from MN in Dec of 2012.
      We will be getting back to her in Feb to continue on out Great loop Adventure.
      We are having dinghy and davits attached to our swim deck while we are away. We did not really need one on the way down beacuse tieds were not a problem. We simply beached the boat and have done this for years.
      Well that has changed. A dinghy should be a lot of fun put we sure do not want to break any laws while using it.
      Can any one tell us if we need navigation lights on a motorized dinghy under 9′ long. I can’t find anything that say I do, but I want to be safe.
      Also under Florida boating regs we found a web site that said boats under 16′ needed 3 Visual distress signals approved for night time use. Can some-one name 3 for me? Hand held VHF radio? Flash light? I don’t know if they qualify and that’s only two.
      We will be looking for your ideas and suggestions on lights and visual distress signals for boats under 16′
      Ariverderci

      Under 16′ – For lighting, you only need one all-around light when operating sunset to sunrise, or in restricted visibility. For distress signals, nothing is required unless you are on coastal (not inland) waters
      See this link:
      http://myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/boat-safety-equipment/vessels-under-16-feet/
      Don’t forget to register your dinghy with proper state, probably the same state as your primary boat.
      Ron & Jan Matuska

      Do not confuse the requirements for a NON-POWERED vessel with those of a vessel that is powered. Powered vessels REQUIRE navigation lights after dark. Non-powered vessels DO NOT (except for a lantern, flashlight, etc). A dinghy is a vessel!! Get out your navigation rules, dust them off and look throught them. Don’t stop reading when you find the answer you want, read the whole section, the rule may change when applied to your situation. Remember, Federal Laws can trump local laws.
      Distress signals are described in the Navigation Rule book. Specifically, rule 37. Additionally look at annex IV to the Nav rules, you will find 15 or more. For lights, look at rule 23 and 25 and make sure you follow either international or inland rules as appropriate.
      Larry Kreissler

      I am a Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Inspector and would refer you to a few web pages for your information.
      The first one is http://www.boat-ed.com/abc/instructors/. This website allows you to look at the different states and their laws. As there are surprising differences between states, you need to be aware of and comply
      with different state laws as you proceed around the loop. This company is the publisher of the various state law books that are distributed by the states. Printed copies of these books are available from your nearest Coast Guard Auxiliary or US Power Squadron who also conduct Vessel Safety Checks.
      I would strongly urge you to get a FREE Vessel Safety Check. Each examiner is qualified to perform the inspection and will issue you a decal if your vessel passes the exam. Some insurance companies might give you a discount on your insurance for passing the exam – check with them. To schedule a Vessel Safety Check with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, just go to http://www.cgaux.org/ and click on “Vessel Safety Check” in the left hand column. Here you will find a “virtual VSC” so you can make sure you have
      all the required equipment. Once you have done this, you can schedule a VSC with a local examiner through this website. For the US Power Squadron, go to http://www.usps.org/ and follow a similar procedure. While passing the exam and display of the decal is not a get out of jail free card, you may still be boarded by the Coast Guard or local law enforcement to conduct a safety check as this is their probable cause for stopping you. If they are doing random boardings and see the decal, they may decide to bypass you and move on to someone who is not displaying the decal.
      Different states will have their own web sites, so please also refer to those for hopefully, the most up to date information.
      Visual Distress Signal carriage requirements depend on the body of water you
      operate on and whether you operate only during daylight, or potentially could operate at night or in limited visibility conditions. Because of the wide variety of time of day, conditions, and locations where you may use
      your dingy, I would equip it to the highest standard – coastal and night operations. This is completely different than daylight only – inland. Personally, I carry the Orion Skyblazer handheld flares in a pocket on my life jacket while aboard my dingy. They meet day and night requirements, coastal and inland requirements, are relatively cheap, and are very compact.
      I have no pecuniary interest in making this recommendation – only one of a satisfied customer. Various localities may have additional requirements or restrictions. An example of this is the Corps of Engineers lakes in Georgia.
      They discourage the use of the pistol type pyrotechnic launchers (notice I did not say guns) as they launch a flare high enough and with enough range that it could come down on shore and potentially start a forest fire. I
      also have a B-1 fire extinguisher, a Danforth style anchor (made for PWC) and a screw type beach anchor along with 50 feet of anchor line, and a couple of dock lines.
      Navigation lighting requirements are Federal and will apply to you regardless of your location. Various states may have additional requirements. On my dingy, I have removable navigation lights with bases that are glued to the tube on the bow, and glued and bolted to the top of the engine at the stern. While the anchors and anchor line are not part of the legally required equipment, it certainly makes my dingy more useful and safer. It is not difficult or expensive to make your dingy compliant and legally usable in all locations under all conditions.
      Even if all of this was not required by various state and federal laws, you want to see and be seen, hear and be heard. This makes you safer on the water and greatly decreases the chances that you will have an accident.
      Thanks for asking the question as I am sure there are others who will read this and take appropriate action to make their Loop safer and to be legal wherever they go.
      Dave & Nan Ellen Fuller

      As Dave pointed out, powered vessels REQUIRE navigation lights after dark. And like Dave, I too have removable navigation lights with bases that are glued to the tube on the bow, and bolted to the top of the engine at the stern.
      Also, be sure to have on board a life jacket for each person on board. An inflatable vest in a pouch worn on the waist is a convenient choice. And a whistle or other audible device is needed too. And a daytime distress signal too. An anchor can save you from having a current sweep your dinghy into harms way, should your outboard conk out ‘” although it’s not required.
      USCG and water cops with time on their hands find dinghies easy prey for these violations. And in some places you’re more likely to be cited after sunset.
      Nighttime dingy transits in busy, confined areas like Key West can be rather dangerous if a dingy does not display the proper navigation lights. The on shore lights and other vessels hamper visibility, increasing the possibility that a dinghy can be run over by a larger vessel.
      Len

      The Fullers state that, `I have removable navigation lights with bases that are glued to the tube on the bow, and glued and bolted to the top of the engine at the stern.’ I see many all-round anchor/range lights on top of outboards which are clearly in violation of COLREGS. If that light cannot be seen all around, over the heads of passengers or the boat’s superstructure, it is illegal and unsafe.
      Capt. Jim Acheson

      As Dave pointed out, powered vessels REQUIRE navigation lights after dark. And like Dave, I too have removable navigation lights with bases that are glued to the tube on the bow, and bolted to the top of the engine at the stern.

      Also, be sure to have on board a life jacket for each person on board. An inflatable vest in a pouch worn on the waist is a convenient choice. And a whistle or other audible device is needed too. And a daytime distress signal too. An anchor can save you from having a current sweep your dinghy into harms way, should your outboard conk out ‘” although it’s not required.

      USCG and water cops with time on their hands find dinghies easy prey for these violations. And in some places you’re more likely to be cited after sunset.

      Nighttime dingy transits in busy, confined areas like Key West can be rather dangerous if a dingy does not display the proper navigation lights. The on shore lights and other vessels hamper visibility, increasing the possibility that a dinghy can be run over by a larger vessel.
      Len

      Comments from Cruisers (1)

      1. USGC Jim -  April 9, 2017 - 5:06 pm

        Navigating a small dinghy at night requires ONLY a white all around light if the vessel is navigated at a speed of less than 7 knots and is less than 7 meters (22′) long-clearly in the rules-and don’t let some clammer cop tell you otherwise. I’ve always found that legit boarding officers in the USCG know the rules. Local cops are another story.

        Reply to USGC

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